The House of Obagi

Last Monday I went to the House of Obagi at Greenbelt 5 to check their products and hopefully get a couple for myself. It wasn't a big clinic, but the products we're arrayed neatly in front with informative brochures while the back area is where the treatments are conducted. I was surprised to see an endless stream of people waiting for treatments, new people coming in to book appointments, and others just to inquire about Obagi! One lady asked. "How much for the whole system?" to which the friendly receptionist answered "around P20,000!"

I gasped internally. I knew Obagi was expensive, but I hadn't known it was that expensive. What does Obagi have to merit such a hefty price tag?

The Obagi Condition and Enhance line is clinically proven to lighten, tighten, firm and turn your skin cells over on a daily basis

According to Obagi, they've got skincare down to a science - literally. Unlike other skincare systems that treat your problems at the surface, Obagi is supposed to initiate healthy skin from the cellular level, bringing it back to its baby-smooth state. The brand has lines for skin concerns like acne, eyebags, chloasma, melasma, senile lentigines, sun damage, and visible fine lines and wrinkles.

Now Obagi products are not like other skincare you can buy off the counter. Like any potent medicine, you need a prescription from your dermatologist before you can purchase Obagi. Read on for a short rundown of some Obagi systems as well as what I got from their clinic!

The Obagi-C Rx System combines the proven benefits of professional strength Vitamin C with a patented formula of 4% prescription strength hydroquinone. It should help even out your skin tone (minimizing freckles, blemishes, photo damage etc) and enhance collagen production.

Professional-C Serums are potent vitamin C serums for maximum daily antioxidant protection. The Serums are designed to neutralize free radicals at all layers of the skin to prevent skin cell damage.

Obagi Nu-Derm System, a physician-prescribed skin care system launched in 1988, accelerates the cellular turnover of the skin. It boosts functions of the skin at the cellular level to improve skin's cellular function to help it look and act younger and healthier.

Obagi also has facials, chemical peels, and other treatments available at their clinics. They have doctors in everyday, so you should drop by to consult with them if you're interested. Like I said in my intro, there are a lot of people who try and are interested in Obagi, which is surprising because it's probably one of the most expensive skincare brands available here. Perhaps it works really well?

As for me, I don't think I'm hiyang with the Condition and Enhance system. I tried the cleanser and toner for a few days, but I broke out. I do love the the Healthy Skin Protection SPF35 sunscreen though - it didn't break me out, plus it makes my skin look great afterwards, without the heaviness and greasiness of typical sunscreens. I believe that a full-sized bottle is ~P3,500, but the 30ml is around ~P1,200.

Surprise surprise! Yes, Obagi also has makeup to aid healthy skin. They distribute Colorescience, perhaps the most expensive brand of mineral makeup out there. It claims to remedy and camouflage specific skin concerns and protect skin from the damaging effects of the sun and environment. As usual, review in a few weeks!

What do you think of the House of Obagi? Have you tried any of their products, and if so how was it?